Sabah is the land of awe-inspiring natural scenery, lush primary rainforests, vibrant coral reefs and mysterious indigenous cultures!Situated on the beautiful island of Borneo, Sabah is one of the thirteen states which Malaysia is made of. Sabah is the second largest state in Malaysia and shares the island of Borneo with Sarawak, Brunei, and Indonesian Kalimantan.Sabah is richly blessed with nature diversity, unique cultures, fun adventure, beautiful beaches, and fantastic cuisines for the adventurous taste buds.From mountaineering and scuba diving to wildlife spotting or just simply relaxing at the beach, Sabah is the ultimate place to go. We have it all here, from the world's largest flower; the Rafflesia, to the highest mountain is South East Asia; Mount Kinabalu, to one of the world's best dive sites; Sipadan Island.Not only will you be amazed by the places to see and things to do here, you will also get to meet warm and friendly people in Sabah who are very hospitable. Get immersed in the unique culture and tradition of Sabah, not forgetting the sweet memories to last a lifetime.

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Tagal' Sungai Moroli, Kampung Luanti - Fish MassageFancy something more unique than your average spa? Then head on to Kampung Luanti, Ranau for a fish massaging session! Located in Kampung Luanti, Ranau, 131 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu (2 hours and 40 minutes drive away); this fish massage ‘spa’ is managed by the Kampung Luanti JKK and lead by Mr. Jeffrin Majangki.In the Local Kadazandusun dialect, ‘tagal’ means ‘no fishing’, and the main purpose of the ‘tagal’ is to preserve the environment as well as the ecosystem to benefit the future generation. ‘Ikan Pelian’ or Malaysian Mahseer comes from the family of Cyprinidae. These fishes are specifically trained by the villagers to perform the healing massage activities.The fish massage is deemed to have a curative effect on those who suffers from psoriasis. Come to Kampung Luanti for regular fish massages and you will enjoy smoother and suppler skin - just like a baby’s bottom.If the idea of fishes nibbling off your dead skin doesn’t thrill you, try other activities such as jungle trekking and camping. Should you intend to stay longer, Kampung Luanti is also equipped with a homestay programme to make visitors feel at home every time.

Agnes Keith HouseIf you should ever stroll along the stretch of Jalan Istana in Sandakan, the much-talked about Agnes Keith House is hard to miss. With its sprawling green lawns and colonial-style wooden walls, the residence has since been restored by the Sabah Museum, in collaboration with the Federal Department of Museums and Antiquities. This British colonial government quarters, called Newlands, was once occupied by famous American writer, Agnes Newton Keith, who penned Land Below The Wind in 1939. Two books followed her first success, namely Three Came Home (1946) and White Man Returns (1951). With the exception of the second book, Land Below the Wind and White Man Returns were written in the house on the hill where she had the best views of Sandakan Bay at the front and the Sulu Sea at the back.Newlands was rebuilt some time in 1946/47 and was the first government permanent timber dwelling to be built after the Second World War. It was built upon the ruined foundations of the original house that was destroyed during the war.The house became home to Agnes and her family, Henry (also referred to as Harry) George Keith, who was the Conservator of Forests and their son, George. When the Keiths left Sabah in 1952, the house was occupied by subsequent Conservators of Forests, forestry officers, volunteers and other staff. Though the Keiths never retuned to Sabah, the house was always referred to as Agnes Keith's House by visitors who never stopped coming to see it.Today the house has been restored and turned into a heritage house, providing interesting insights to life during British North Borneo. It is furnished with a reproduction of colonial furniture and antiques. A gallery on the first floor tells the story of this remarkable woman, her books and her family. A Keith time-line starts in 1873 and ends in 2004 tracing the past to the present Keiths.

Aquarium & Marine MuseumKota Kinabalu (Capital City)The state-of-the-art marine museum is yet another addition to the Universiti Malaysia Sabah campus.Established in 1995, the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI) is aimed to promote education, research and training in conservation and sustainable development of marine resources, and a rational deployment of biotechnology.Situated within the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI) Complex adjunction to the Sepanggar Bay area, this aquarium and marine museum boasts one of the best aquarium facilities on the Borneo Island.Among its facilities are the free standing exhibition tanks, live open water reef exhibition centre, live shallow reef exhibition centre, mangrove walk, contemporary Marine and Maritime Museum, Multimedia Interactive Information Kiosk, and Sipadan deep dive diorama.The UMS Aquarium and Marine Museum is open every day except on Wednesdays and public holidays. Visiting hours are from 9.30am – 12.30pm and 2.00pm – 4.30pm.

Atkinson Clock TowerKota Kinabalu (Capital City)One of the most enduring landmarks in Kota Kinabalu, it stands prominently on a bluff along Signal Hill Road adjacent to the old Police Station. Built in 1903, this all-wood, no-nails structure was built in memory of Francis George Atkinson - the popular first District Officer of Jesselton during the British North Borneo Chartered Company Administration, who had succumbed to a tropical disease at the young age of 28. This Clock Tower has the distinction of being the oldest standing structure in the whole of Sabah that survived the destruction of Jesselton town during World War II. Till today, it still serves to keep the city's time.The Atkinson Clock Tower is managed by the Sabah Museum under its Antiquity and History section.

Batu TulugSandakanLocated at Batu Putih village and 41km from the Kota Kinabatangan township, Agop Batu Tulug is a steep limestone cliff that stands 39 meters high and is part of the 20-25 million- year old Labang limestone formation. The word ‘agop' in the Orang Sungai language means cave. There are three main caves, agop suriba (lower) on the forest floor, lintaga (middle) and sawat (upper) betweeen 12-15m high. Inside the middle and upper caves are more than a hundred carved wooden coffins dating back 200-250 years, watched over by bats and swallows. Batu Putih village can be viewed from here as well. The coffins resemble different animals associated to the beliefs of the Orang Sungai but it has also been said that they are the coffins of the Chinese who once settled in the area as Chinese artifacts were found among the remains. A site Museum since 1996, it has facilities such as an information center, stairs leading to the caves, toilets and resting huts

Borneo Art GalleryKota Kinabalu (Capital City)Art lovers will take delight in the new Borneo Art Gallery which is catered to meet the fine tastes of painting enthusiasts!Situated on the 2nd floor of Asia City Complex, this art gallery mainly showcases the artworks of talented local artists as well as several of those by artists from the Philippines and Indonesia. All the paintings exhibited in the art gallery are for sale. Whether you are a devoted art collector or simply someone who appreciates paintings, this gallery is definitely worth visiting.The Borneo Art Gallery is open from 9am to 9pm Monday through Saturday, and 9am to 3pm on Sunday and Public Holidays. Entrance is free.

Borneo KellybaysTuaranWant to get up close and personal with nature? Pack your bags and make your way to Borneo Kellybays for some nature-all fun.Nestled in Kampung Laya Laya in Tuaran, Borneo Kellybays is an ideal destination for family getaways and MICE group trips. It offers adventurous activities such as camping, volleyball, challenging games, water sport (paddle boat, kayak, banana boat and body boat), fishing, blow pipe, and crab catching. After a full day of thrilling adventures, for a change of pace, chill out while learning the art of batik painting or see some cooking demonstration. At night, enjoy a campfire party or simply relish a quiet night amidst a mangrove forest. An amazing place to drink in the great outdoors!

Bukit GemokTawauStrap on those hiking shoes and get ready to explore the untouched forest of Tawau's Bukit Gemok. Situated 10 km from the city centre, Bukit Gemok (Gemok Hill) has recently become a popular spot for avid trekkers and Hash runners who love the challenge of varied terrain. Bukit Gemok is approximately 428 metres above sea level and is part of the Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve, covering 445 hectares. The hike begins with an easy trail of concrete stairs which eventually ‘disappear' and make way for natural ground. The uphill walk is fairly challenging, particularly for beginners. Watch out for rocks, bulging tree roots and the like. Some parts get steeper and more demanding, but the beautiful natural surroundings make it all worthwhile. Along the way there is so much to marvel at, such as the giant trees that seem to stretch endlessly to the sky and the elusive creatures that scurry about. There are seven huts along the way for walkers to rest and relax. After hiking for about an hour (depending on your fitness level), you will arrive at the Titian Selara canopy walkway.

At 231 metres long, it is deemed one of the longest canopy walkways in Sabah. Your ‘struggle' to the top will be worthwhile once you get a glimpse of the breathtaking view of Tawau from this high up. The stunning scenery spans the town centre, the picturesque coastline and its surrounding areas. The trek down Bukit Gemok should take a shorter time, but be warned that the trail becomes muddy and slippery during the rainy season, so exercise extra caution.The forest reserve was developed in the early 1990s and is now equipped with basic facilities such as washrooms and rest huts along the trail. Any land vehicle can be used to get to Bukit Gemok. Just be sure to dress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids and get ready to soak in the majesty of the lush greenery along the trails of Bukit Gemok.

City MosqueKota Kinabalu (Capital City)Built on a 2.47 acres site at the Likas bay, the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is exemplary of the Islamic contemporary architecture. Situated near the sea, this majestic white mosque boasts similar features to the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. This floating mosque has a prayer hall which houses three madrasahs and accommodates from 9, 000 to 12, 000 people at a time.By far the largest mosque in Kota Kinabalu, the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is even possibly the most beautiful one in Malaysia – the man-made lagoon which surrounds it gives a serenely gorgeous and dramatic look to the mosque on a full moon night.The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is open for public visits daily except Fridays from 8am to 5pm. There are no fees charged on visitors.

Crocker Range ParkKeningau144 kilometers away from Kota Kinabalu is the Crocker Range National Park (CRNP), situated in the Crocker Range, Sabah. The Crocker Range Park is located 13 kilometers from Keningau town, approximately 25 minutes away by car. The Crocker Range was designated to be a forest reserve in 1968. In 1984, Crocker Range Nature Park was then established in order to protect the water catchments area which was supplying clean drinking water to the West Coast and the interior of Sabah. It was renamed Taman Banjaran Crocker (Crocker Range Park) in 1996 and is managed by the Sabah Parks. Located in the heart of Crocker Range Park, the newly developed Sabah Park’s facility which opened in February 2004 is ideal a place for meetings, camping, jungle trekking and outdoor educational activities. Among the attractions to found in the Crocker Range Park are the Rafflesia sites, trekking courses, and camping ground. The rising concern for protecting its rich biodiversity and rare species of flora and fauna had been the prime propellant in the initiative to gazette it as a national park.

Danum Valley Conservation AreaLahad DatuOn a sprawling 438 square kilometer undisturbed land, 70 kilometers (44 miles) west of Lahad Datu, lies nature’s jewel called the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This conservation area boasts one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200 species of tree per hectare thriving on it.Recognized as one of the world’s most complex ecosystem, this forest serves as a natural home for endangered wildlife species such as the Sumatran rhino, banteng, Asian elephant, clouded leopard, orang utan, proboscis monkey, as well as a vast range of Sabah’s lowland fauna.Being remote from human habitation and almost alien to modern civilization makes the Danum Valley Conservation Area a naturalist paradise. Drink in the beauty of this virgin forest by taking nature walks with experienced naturalists through tranquil rivervine and lowland dipterocarp forest.Avid birdwatchers will appreciate the 300-meter-long and 27-meter-high canopy walkway which offers a peek into abundant bird life in the forest canopy. The Danum Valley Conservation Area also has beautiful waterfalls and rivers including Sungai Purut 7-tiered pools—one of the most spectacular waterfalls and pools found in Danum Valley Conservation Area.Here, visitors also get the chance to visit an ancient Kadazandusun burial site, complete with belian coffins and ceramic spirit jars. Three burial sites have been discovered in Danum Valley—two near the field centre and one below the cliff, overlooking Borneo Rainforest Lodge.On the way down, visitors can take a dip in the jacuzzi pool that is leech-free and safe for swimming. Later in the evening, go for a wildlife watching night drive in an open jeep. Depending on luck, wildlife photography enthusiasts will get an excellent opportunity to catch snapshots of the elusive wild inhabitants of the Danum Valley Conservation Area.

Be more enlightened about nature and wildlife by watching an educational video and slide presentations. Those planning extensive wildlife photography are recommended to stay for at least 3 days to have better success at finding wild animals frolicking about.

Double Six MonumentKota Kinabalu (Capital City)The Double Six Monument is located in Sembulan, marking a significant tragedy in the history of Sabah. On June 6th, 1976, an airplane carrying Sabah’s fifth Chief Minister, Tun Mohd. Fuad Stephens and six other State ministers crashed, killing all on board. The Double Six monument was erected on the exact spot of the fatal crash.

Gaya Street (Sunday Market)Kota Kinabalu (Capital City)

Originally named Bond Street, Gaya Street located in the Kota Kinabalu Central Business District has been the centre of business for over a hundred years. The wooden shops with nipah roofs are long gone but here is where generations-old family businesses are still thriving passed down from father to son. Every Sunday morning, the length of Gaya Street is closed off to traffic to make way for the Fair. Shop for anything under shady trees and over-sized umbrellas, like batik sarongs, fruits and flowers, arts and craft, footwear, antiques and souvenirs, cakes, even pets and herbs!. This is the best place to experience the cross-section of the local population when entire families enjoy a Sunday outing.The Gaya Street Fair is on every Sunday from 6.30 am to 1.00 pm

Gomantong CaveSandakanDescribed by WWF as 'the best-managed edible birds' nest cave in the world', Gomantong Caves in the heartland of the Gomantong Rainforest Reserve have been the focus for birds' nests for centuries. Since the 13th century, Chinese traders have come to Sandakan in search of birds' nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese and found nearly 100 metres up on the ceilings of the Gomantong Caves. Harvesters put their lives on the line literally, climbing networks of rattan ladders and ropes to get to the nests. The risky nature of nest collecting has only helped made the commodity a pricey one.There are two cave complexes - Simud Hitam (Black Cave) soaring up to 90 metres high and the more accessible of the two, and Simud Putih (White Cave), where the more valuable nests are found. Simud Hitam is a five- minute walk from the registration centre. A well-maintained boardwalk gives you easy access to do some exploring or watch the skilled harvesters at work.The resident creatures of the caves include swiftlets (from which the nests are collected) and bats among others. Outside, other birds such as serpent eagles, bat hawks and kingfishers can be seen. You might even spot an orangutan or two. You will need to make prior arrangements for exploring the more challenging Simud Putih which calls for more serious caving.Facilities include a picnic area as well as the Gomantong Rainforest Chalet which can accommodate up to 30 people a night.

Gombizau Honey Bee FarmKudatGombizau Honey Bee Farm is located in Matunggong, a sub-district 43 kilometers south of Kudat town, where one of the economical activities for the village community is honey bee farming. There are over a hundred bee cages in the bee farm.Founded over ten years ago, this bee farm produces honey both for the consumption of the local people as well as to be sold in bottles for those who are akin to the sweet taste of raw honey.For many generations, the people of Kampung Gombizau has been consuming raw honey as it is believed and has been proven to possess remedial properties; other than being able to lend its superior taste to food when used in cooking.Here, visitors will be able to observe how a bee farm is managed. They will often get a taste of raw honey straight from the honeycomb. Other than that, there are also rubber trees planted at the bee farm. Therefore, visitors can also witness the traditional method of rubber tapping and rubber rolling.

Handicraft MarketKota Kinabalu (Capital City)Located along Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, the Handicraft Market is a favoured shopping haunt for locals and tourists alike. Souvenirs galore await you and rest assured there is something for everyone. Start with the cheap trinkets, which make excellent gifts for friends and family. These include keychains, beaded bracelets and necklaces and bookmarks. You will be spoilt for choice with miles and miles of beautiful sarongs and pareos, an ideal reminder of your tropical holiday in Sabah! Be sure to check out the glistening and gorgeous pearl jewellery and handicrafts. You can purchase loose pearls or stunning brooches, necklaces and earrings, available at almost every stall you visit in this vast market.For those with an eye for ornate wooden carvings, you have come to the right place. The market has an endless variety of carved crafts, including exotic wooden masks, picture frames and even stunning wall panels. Not be missed are the assortment of rattan baskets in all shapes and sizes.The best thing about the Handicraft Market is that you never know what piece of treasure you might unravel during your visit. Some have returned home with an authentic sompoton (a traditional wind instrument), a Murut headhunter's blowpipe, a coconut-shaped handbag and a wooden-frog that ‘sings' when you stroke its back with a wooden stick.The most important tip when visiting the market is to bargain, bargain, bargain! Pick up some local lingo to improve your bargaining skills and you might even walk away a steal.

Kampung Bavanggazo (Rungus Longhouse)KudatTraditionally, the Rungus people live in longhouses built on stilts, but the shift to modern-day living has meant that the sight of such longhouses are getting more rare. In Kg. Bavanggazo near Tinangol in the Kudat district, you can still experience this fascinating communal lifestyle in a purpose-built longhouse constructed entirely of traditional materials but with added modern comforts like toilets and showers. Situated in a valley about 41 kilometres south of Kudat town and 98 kilometres or two and a half hours drive from KK City, you can get a taste of real Rungus living through their food, daily rituals and music on a day trip or overnight stay. The later will need prior arrangements.

Kampung Kuala AbaiKota BeludOne of the most prominent must-see stops near Kota Belud is Kampung Kuala Abai. It is a popular fishing village which is situated facing the South China Sea. Kampung Kuala Abai is also the departure point for Mantanani Island; a famous spot for fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Located 20 kilometers away from Kota Belud and 90 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, it is home to the Bajau Laut (Sea Bajau) community.

Kawang Forest CentreKinarut / PaparThe verdant 1, 551 hectare Kawang Forest Reserve is situated in Kawang; somewhere along the Kota Kinabalu – Papar road, about 23 kilometers from KK city and 30 kilometers from Papar town.This forest reserve was gazetted on March 16, 1957 in an effort to preserve and sustain the biodiversity of the Primary Forest Reserve. In 1984, it was re-classified as a Second Class Domestic Forest Reserve. The main function of this forest reserve is to supply gravity water to the locals living within its proximity.Adventurous nature lovers will truly appreciate a jungle trekking expedition in the Kawang Forest Centre. Thinking of roughing it for a night? The Kawang Forest Centre makes an excellent spot for camping and other recreational activities. Those who are neither afraid of the dark nor repelled by bad smell should also explore the bat cave for more thrills and spills.The Kawang Forest Reserve is equipped with facilities such as an information centre, changing room, toilet, 10 units of camping site, and 3 units of chalet. It is open to visitors daily from 8am to 12 noon and 2pm to 4.30pm every day except Fridays, and 8am to 11.30am and 2pm to 4.30pm on Fridays.A visit to the Kawang Forest Centre guarantees heaps of fun and provides quintessential nature education for the urban dwellers.

KDCA Cultural VillageKota Kinabalu (Capital City)Understand the differences between today’s culture and the culture that our ancestors’ lived in years back by visiting KDCA Cultural Village. You will get to witness our ancestor’s lifestyle at their homes which is built exactly as it was years ago. The cultural village is located at Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Hongkod Koisaan, Penampang which is about 15 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu City. This cultural village is specially catered for the Kadazandusun tribes in Sabah and there are four (4) major Dusun tribes in Sabah in the village; Dusun Tindal Kota Belud, Dusun Papar, Rungus and Murut.

Kelambu BeachKudatFor beach lovers who opt for a more reclusive and less mainstream beach vacation, Kelambu Beach is the ultimate place to be.Though less known, Kelambu Beach is indeed one of the best beaches in Sabah with its clear aquamarine sea and beautiful white sand engulfed by astounding verdant islands.The inviting clear waters offer a variety of activities such as speed boating, water skiing, swimming, and snorkelling. The wonderful beach, on the other hand; is a perfect spot for family picnics, romantic strolls by the beach, seashells collecting or simply to enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

Kipandi Butterfly ParkKota Kinabalu (Capital City)The Kipandi Butterfly Park located in the Crocker Range is a complex of high altitude hills, up to 1500m, extending southward from this summit. These hills are mostly covered with primary forest in which at least 8000 species of plants including 2500 species of trees have been recorded and this area is one of the most important sanctuary for the biodiversity in the world. The entomological fauna of this area is one fo the richest of the world.Our park is located in Moyog, Penampang and lies at 700 meter altitude in the heart of the Crocker range. It is a very beautiful place surrounded with forest. Walking around in the path will bring you backt to a lost paradise with the song of cicadas and birds and fluttering butterflies sipping nectar of gorgeous flowers. Many butterflies come into the garden to suck nectrar from the many flower shrubs. Over 100 species have been recorded and inside the enclosure can be more easily photographed.

Klias RiverBeaufortLocated on the Klias Peninsula is the Klias Wetland, a Mangrove Forest Reserve. With the bizarre-looking proboscis monkey gaining as much popularity with the tourists as the orang utan, the Klias Wetland with its large proboscis population is fast becoming the latest ecotourism destination in Sabah.These tree-dwelling animals normally hunt for food in the evenings so many boat cruises depart the Kota Klias jetty at around 3.00pm.Other riverside residents that may be spotted are macaques, crocodiles, moniter lizards, tree snakes and birds such as the eagle.Back on the jetty, enjoy a natural light show when hundreds of fireflies put on a glowing performance for your benefit.

Labuan MuseumLabuan F.TLabuan Museum displays the history and culture of Labuan. Its history covers pre-historic era of Labuan, Brunei Sultanate, British colonial days, World War II, Independence declaration of Labuan as federal Territory up to the establishment of Labuan Corporation.While it's cultural theme showcases various phases of socio-cultural and economic evolution in Labuan.

Linangkit Cultural VillageTuaranLooking for a cultural thrill? Swing by to the Linangkit Cultural Village in Tuaran and get personally acquainted to the Lotud people—one of the 32 diverse ethnic groups in Sabah.Situated in Kampung Selupoh—approximately an hour’s drive away from the heart of Kota Kinabalu—the Linangkit Cultural village promises an in-depth look into the rich social and cultural heritage of the Lotud people of Sabah.Experience a day in the life of the Lotud people through a smorgasbord of interesting activities such as a guided tour around the village, traditional costume try-on, handicraft-making demonstrations, traditional food preparation demonstrations, traditional fish netting, tapioca plucking, cultural show, river cruise and firefly watching. Visitors will also have a chance to sample traditional Lotud delicacies during their visit.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey SanctuarySandakanIn the centre of the mangrove forests of Semawang is the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, where you can see Borneo's indigenous proboscis monkeys. This privately-owned sanctuary located within an oil palm estate gives you the chance to observe these animals up close and personal.The remarkable males sport big dangling noses, reddish flat-top hairstyles, white tails and markings, and pot bellies. The females on the other hand, are much smaller and have up-turned noses.Take a night tour for a chance to see wild boars, flying squirrels, fireflies and crocodiles. The sanctuary also has a lodge with aircondtioned twin or double rooms, family chalet and dormitaries for those who wish to stay overnight.

Tuaran Crocodile FarmTuaranIf the thought of encountering living dinosaurs thrills you, we’re pleased to present you the Tuaran Crocodile Farm—a must-visit place for all Crocodile Dundee and Steve Irwin fanaticsLocated 32 kilometers (circa 40 minutes away) from the Kota Kinabalu city, this crocodile farm which was opened back in 2004 is a sanctuary for some 5,000 crocodiles. Among the species of crocodiles kept in the farm are the Buaya Tembaga (Crocodylus Porosus)—which can live both in freshwater and saltwater, the Nile Crocodile, the Aqua Crocodile (bisexual crocodile), and the Gharial Crocodile.The 11-acre large farm also houses a variety of other animals such as two Borneo Anacondas measuring 28 and 20 feet each, the adorable and friendly Binturong bearcats, ostriches, deer, as well as ponds of catfish and koi fish—which are always in anticipation for visitors to feed them. Should you be lucky, you will also get the chance to take a sneak peek at cute baby crocs in the nursery.

The crocodile farm is situated at Kg. Lok Batik, Jalan Sulaman Highway Tuaran and is open daily from 8.30a.m to 5.30p.m.

Teck Guan Cocoa MuseumTawauCan't imagine a world without chocolate? Neither can we. For the true chocolate lover, a visit to the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum in Tawau is a must. Tawau is known for its booming cocoa industry and the museum proudly houses the history of its development over the years.The Teck Guan Cocoa Museum, located at Mile 2, Tanjung Batu Laut, opened its doors for visitors in 2002. With its attractive design and layout, the museum is the only one of its kind in Malaysia. The fragrant scent of cocoa greets you as you enter the doors. Within the museum grounds, you will also find a cocoa processing plant and manufacturing factory, giving you an up close view of the production process.A wall-to-wall illustrated history explains in detail the discovery and development of coca in Malaysia and the world. The museum also has a mini auditorium, which seats 40 people at a time. Here you will enjoy a 20-minute video on cocoa processing and production.The ‘Hoko' lady then awaits to show you how cocoa snacks and other cocoa delicacies are prepared. Various Hoko products are also available for purchase, from chocolate jam to instant hot cocoa beverages.

Usukan CoveKota BeludLooking for a leisure destination to spend the weekend? Head over to Usukan Cove, and you might as well find your sweet escape!Usukan Cove is situated in the coast of Kota Belud, right next to Kampung Kuala Abai where the jetty to Mantanani Island is located. From Kota Kinabalu, the journey to Usukan Cove takes approximately one-and-half hours. Throughout the journey, you will be delighted by the wonderful sights and sceneries of the idyllic Kota Belud countryside—passing endless plains of paddy fields, undulating hills, and rustic wooden village houses with a picturesque view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the background.On a balmy evening, simply take a walk along the golden sandy beach or lie on a hammock under the shade with a good book or an iPod. For adventure seekers, opt for a leisure dive or go snorkeling to check out the plenteous natural attractions which include gorgeous coral reefs and diverse marine life. Like checking out the natural sceneries? Hop on a kayak and take yourself on a self-tour around the island.One of the most interesting activities that can be done during your trip to Usukan Cove is fishing. A fishing yacht will take visitors to the middle of the sea—20 minutes away from the mainland—to fish. Expect to be able to catch garoupas, sting rays, or even puffer fish during this fishing expedition! You can bring back your catch to be cooked for dinner; otherwise, releasing the fish back to the sea would be a good option as well.To unwind on a lazy afternoon, take a cruise down the Kawa Kawa River where you can sit back and enjoy the amusing sights of proboscis monkeys in harems, long tailed macaques swinging from tree to tree, and spot some rare species of birds. Later, witness the breathtaking Kota Belud sunset before cruising down Abai River where, depending on the weather, visitors will be enchanted by a wonderful spectacle of fireflies that form together around the trees, appearing like a network of twinkling colourlights!

Adventure SportsAdventure Sports is one of the fast picking up outdoor activities in Sabah. Those who are daring, ready to explore and tired of routine sightseeing then adventure sports is the perfect activity for them. These sports can include a variety of activities like rock climbing, white water rafting, trekking and Malaysian traditional sports. Contact Sabah Tourism Office to for bookings.

DivingDiving is one of the most famous leisure time sports and Sabah is an excellent place to indulge in it. There are many small islands in and around Sabah that are protected marine parks and have excellent facilities for scuba diving, snorkelling and water sports. The blue waters, excellently preserved coral reefs, and rare marine species like green turtles, napoleon wrasse, sharks and giant clams are always a treat to watch.

GolfSabah offers some of the best natural golf courses in Malaysia. Being a British colony since a long time, golf has developed into a much loved sport among the Malayans. Today, there are a number of golf clubs in and around Sabah which offer all the necessary facilities for your game, like cabbies and golf equipment. The golf courses propose challenges to all levels of player, whether you are an amateur or a professional.

Jungle TrekkingSabah’s rainforest’s are still largely unexplored and offer an excellent chance for trekkers, hikers and climbers to discover the diverse yet at the same time marvellous array in the flora and fauna of its forests. One of main attractions of the forests has always been the Rafflesia which is the largest flower in the world and also because of its stinking smell which might drive you away, but ironically it is also one of it's high points. As you tread your way through the blooming flowers and lush vegetation, you might get lucky enough to view a pair of Orang-utans. The waterfalls, rivers, green foliage and the surroundings are so beautiful that even the camera lenses are not apt enough to capture its beauty.

Wellness & SpaSabah is abundant with vegetation due to its tropical rainforests and along with it comes the additional package of availability of medicinal herbs and spices. One can relax their body and de-stress themselves at their favoured spa by having a good massage with essential oils and other products. With a one hour break at the Spa, you will be rejuvenated for you next activity, as fresh as the morning dew.

GETTING THERE

Because of Sabah's remote location, just about everybody will arrive by air through the Kota Kinabalu International Airport in the capital city (tel. 088/238-555), about a 20-minute drive south of the central part of the city.A surprising number of direct international flights connect Sabah to the region. Malaysia Airlines flies from Hong Kong, Manila, Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo, among others (tel. 1300/883-000; www.malaysiaairlines.com), and AirAsia flies from Bangkok (tel. 1300/889-933; www.airasia.com). Australian Airlines, operated by Qantas (tel. 131313; www.australianairlines.com.au), flies from Sydney.Malaysia Airlines also has direct domestic flights to Kota Kinabalu from KL, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Sibu, and Miri, with in-state service to Sandakan and other towns. AirAsia has direct domestic flights from KL and Johor Bahru.The most efficient way to get into town from the airport is by taxi. The cars line up outside the arrival hall and are supposed to use a coupon system - look for the coupon-sales and taxi-booking counter close by. You'll pay about RM20 ($5.50) for a trip to town. Ignore the drivers that will try to lure you away from the coupon counter - they will always overcharge you.If you're a foreign visitor, a valid passport (and visa wherever applicable) is required. A Social or Tourist Visit Pass does not permit the holder to take up employment, business or professional work in Malaysia.The Professional Visit Pass allows foreign visitors to enter the country for business negotiations or inspection of business premises. These passes however, cannot be used for employment purposed or for supervising the installation of new machinery of the construction factory.

A fee is charged for a Professional Visit pass depending on purpose of visit, profession and country.

Getting Around

In the downtown area, you can get around quite easily on foot between hotels, restaurants, tour operators, markets, and the tourism office. For longer trips, a taxi will be necessary; in town trips cost about RM10 ($2.80). Taxis are flagged down on the street or by your hotel's bellhop.

By Road

Taxis are available from the airport into the capital city and major hotels. Overland journey by bus or car is possible to arrange between Kuching (Sarawak), Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei Darussalam) and Kota Kinabalu. Passports are stamped at all the borders.

By Train

Borneo only railway service in operation is in Sabah. It runs from Tanjung Aru railway station in Kota Kinabalu to Beaufort and Tenom. The journey to Beaufort takes less than 2 hours, and to Tenom about 5 hours. The ride by railcar through the Padas River gorge to Tenom is particularly interesting to visitors.Note:The North Borneo Railway will be closed for maintenance starting January 2007. Read here for further details.